The dB Technologies Sub 612 is a traditional bass reflex subwoofer, with a 12" driver powered by an active module that is equipped with a Class D power amplifier. With a peak power output of 1,200W (600W RMS), the Sub 612 will really make the ground shake, and still, the low end is incredibly clean – even when it's turned right up, thanks to a 56-bit DSP that manages the subwoofer's frequencies, and the RMS, peak, and thermal limiters. For all its power, the Sub 612 is unusually light for an active subwoofer, weighing in at just under 20kg (a touch over 44lbs). The integrated active module has two inputs, making the Sub 612 an ideal basis for a 2.1 stereo setup (i.e. one mono bass and two tops in stereo mode). The enclosure is made of high-quality composite wood with a black textured finish and also has an M20 spacer rod mount.
Thanks to its active module, the dB Technologies Sub 612 is immensely flexible, and can easily and effortlessly be used with tops from other manufacturers. Key here is the Sub 612's built-in crossover, which can pass on the input signal either unprocessed or with an activated lowcut filter if desired. The active module is also capable of reversing the polarity, should the device's positioning negatively affect the sound quality in any way. In addition, there is a bass boost that can be activated at the touch of a button if the occasion calls for some extra low end. A pair of LEDs - "Signal" and "Limiter" - indicate when a signal is present (green LED) and when the level limit has been reached (red LED). As is usual at this price point, a standard household socket provides the mains supply.
This compact all-rounder is easy to transport, thanks both to its dimensions (360 x 550 x 525mm) and its modest weight. With its flexible connection options, the dB Technologies Sub 612 can be combined with a top (for a mono stack) or two satellites (stereo). For smaller setups or the more restrained music genres, one Sub 612 will provide more than enough bass. For gigs with a full band or DJ events, on the other hand, two Sub 612s would be the way to go. The unit's controls are accessible and pretty streamlined: A control knob for gain and three pushbuttons will have even less experienced users achieving their desired results quickly. With its operating frequency range of 46-123Hz, the dB Technologies Sub 612 is suitable for many styles of music, with the exception perhaps of tracks where low-end bass is the defining feature. Practically, the device offers two fundamentally different bass sound settings, allowing users to switch between "flat" and "bass boost" at the flick of a switch.
In the mid-90s, dBTechnologies was established as a wholly owned subsidiary of A.E.B. Industriale s.r.l.. Since then, the company has established itself as one of the world's leading suppliers of professional sound systems. Today, dBTechnologies is present in more than 100 countries with its own sales offices or representing distributors. In the mid-2000s dBTechnologies switched to digital amplifier technology on its own initiative and as one of the first manufacturers in the industry, and can look back on more than 10 years of experience in the development of digital power amplifiers and their environments, including power supply and Digital Signal Processing. Their current catalogue includes active and passive loudspeakers, power amplifiers, and electronics as well as wireless systems for a wide range of applications from musicians and DJs to event technology service providers and permanent installations.
The dB Technologies Sub 612 can be set up quickly, and its small footprint means it will fit into any club or rehearsal room. It is extremely easy to use: To get started, all the user has to do is connect the mixer's sum outputs to the Sub 612's XLR inputs. Active tops, such as the dB Technologies Opera 10, can be docked via the amp module's link-out XLR outputs. Once the power supply has been connected, it's "go" time! The dB Technologies Sub 612 makes for a strong foundation on which to build a classic satellite PA (i.e. subwoofer -> distance rod -> top) or a 2.1 system (one bass and two tops). All in all, a solid basis for a super-compact PA that delivers quality results fast, not least thanks to its intuitive usability.